Leather and Lace

Chapter One

Saved By The Bell

The day was too warm for a jacket, but she sported one anyway as did the rest of her girls. It was almost sickening how clone-like they were in their identical dress and styles. Padme pulled the pink satin closer around her, reveling in the feel of it against her skin. On the back of each jacket, SWEETHEART was embroidered in silver, marking them as claimed territory for the Lightsider gang. She was hoping that by keeping her jacket on, he wouldn't notice the black T-shirt she wore, decorated with the print of her favorite band, The Starbursts. Ben was never thrilled when she brought out anything from her past, and she was in no mood to fight today.

The school campus was already crowded with students, though they quickly moved out of their way as the girls passed. The steady click of heels against pavement held an intimidating rhythm as they marched across school ground to where the boys waited. She dressed her face with a sexy smile and swayed up to Ben's side. He bowed his head to brush his lips against hers in a chaste kiss.

" Good morning." She said cheerfully as she pulled away. His gray eyes twinkled in the dim morning light.

" Yes, it is." He turned away from her and continued his conversation with the other boys in the gang, most likely handing out orders as their superior.

Padme drew in a long breath, taking the foil pack of cigarettes out of her jacket pocket, hitting it fiercely against her palm repeatedly before pulling one out of the pack. Sticking it between her lips, she daintily struck a match and lit the tip, glad to have something to focus her attentions on. Girls were not to get involved with the business, nor did they lead. They were merely attractive presences, meant to be looked upon, and used to relieve one of the carnal sins. This was life- this was her life, and this was how she'd always known it to be.

Her sister, Sola, had been a member when she was her age, and even married one of her fellow members, Darred Janren. It was all sickening, actually. The thought of marrying and being with Ben her entire life made her shudder and silently gag. In all actuality, she'd probably kill herself before marrying him. Never a good thing to admit to.

A grin crept up her face as the bell rang for class to start. God she loved Chemistry.

A/N: Once more, I am sry it's short, but I really wanted to post a chap that gave some info on her. The next will prolly focus on Ani more. Thanx indigrl and wishicouldsay for the reviews. They are greatly appreciated.